The case went to arbitration, and a US District Court Magistrate has now ruled in favor of Trump, awarding the Miss Universe organization $5 million (£3.08m), reportsTMZ.

In a statement, Trump said of the ruling: "We cannot allow a disgruntled contestant to make false and reckless statements which are damaging to the many people who have devoted their hearts and souls to the Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageant systems.

"While I feel very badly for Sheena, she did the wrong thing. She was really nasty, and we had no choice. It is an expensive lesson for her."